Here’s a tip for accessing a digital or audio copy of the latest reads on the cheap.

I stepped into a chain bookstore to kill a little time between appointments. A prominent display of current popular books greeted me just inside the door.

I’d already read a couple of them, and some others looked interesting. I snapped a few pictures of the books I wanted to consider further.

These are bestsellers at full price. I rarely purchase books at full price unless I can justify it as a work expense. New bestsellers usually don’t go on sale for several months. Here’s how to read or listen to the book in weeks, days, or immediately, and for FREE.

Download the free Libby library app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. On a computer, visit libbyapp.com in your web browser. Link your library card. Search for the title you want to borrow or browse categories. Select the format, ebook or audio, if available.Tap Borrow. You might have to wait if others requested the title before you. Loan periods can range 7 to 21 days, depending on your library’s rules. You may have several pending requests at once. Libby will notify you when it’s your turn. If you are too busy, you can ask to be skipped until you have more time to read.Read or listen to your book.Post a review of the book on Goodreads (optional, but appreciated by authors).Return the book for the next reader. If you forget, the system automatically returns the book at the end of the loan period. No late fees.

I just finished Abraham Verghese’s generational saga set in India, The Covenant of Water. I didn’t have to wait as long as Libby originally predicted.

I checked out another book that had intrigued me at the bookstore, but after listening for two hours, I chose not to finish it. I’m so glad I didn’t purchase that book!

Enjoy more books without paying more! Happy reading!